Residents with breathing problems might find Thursday's weather forecast problematic, with high ozone levels expected, according to AirNow.gov, a national website that provides national air quality information.
An air quality health advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. through 11 p.m. on Thursday.
The alert states:
While high ozone levels are normally restricted to the warm season, fine particles can be high at any time of year. These pollutants arise from sources such as cars, trucks and power plants, with fine particle levels also enhanced by forest fires and residential burning.
Officials with the State Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of Health said the Air Quality Index is expected to exceed 100, prompting the alert.
Active children and adults, and people with lung disease, such as asthma, should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.
To help reduce pollution levels, AirNow.gov suggests refraining from unnecessary driving and using public transportation if available.
